Homogeneous Hydrogenation of Carbon Dioxide with Transition Metal Complexes

Recent advances in the efficiency of the homogeneous catalytic reduction of carbon dioxide may bring CO₂ fixation by this method from a research curiosity into an industrially applicable process. The reduction of CO₂ to bulk chemicals such as dimethylformamide, methyl formate, and methanol offers a safer alternative to toxic CO-based processes. This review describes stoichiometric and homogeneously catalyzed reactions of CO₂, especially those which involve hydrogenation by hydrogen gas. The newly discovered advantages of supercritical CO₂ as a medium for its own fixation will be particularly highlighted.